Job Title: Enforcement Officer Directorate: Environment Department: Regulatory Services Location: Initially primarily based from Newtownards, but may be required to work at any location throughout the Borough. Reports to: Neighbourhood Environment Supervisor Salary Scale: Scale 5 SCP 13 - 18 Car User Status: Use of Council Vehicle PURPOSE AND FUNCTION OF THE POST: The Post holder will work as part of a team undertaking enforcement duties across the Borough, providing a high visibility patrol presence in relation to Dog Control, Litter Control, and Anti-Social Behaviour, and issuing Fixed Penalty Notices. PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Implement Council policy relating to The Dogs (NI) Order 1983, The Litter (NI) Order 1994, The Pollution Control and Local Government (NI) Order 1978, The Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act (NI) 2011, The Welfare of Animals (NI) Act 2011, Council Bye Laws, and any other legislation relevant to the functions of the office. Seize, collect, impound, and transport stray and unwanted dogs. Advise the Service Manager or the Head of Service on all relevant matters relating to the Borough. Deal with enquiries from the public and maintain records, assist with accounts, statistical returns, and compile reports as necessary. Assist with investigations and briefs of evidence for presentation at Court in accordance with the provisions of Police and Criminal Evidence (PACE) (NI) Order 1989 or other relevant codes of practice, and attend Court to give/present evidence. Participate in operations in conjunction with other relevant bodies, including the PSNI. Maintain vehicles and equipment in a clean and hygienic condition. Perform day-to-day upkeep, cleaning, and maintenance of Council holding kennels, including intake and discharge duties, feeding, and providing water to impounded dogs. Provide a high visibility patrol function in relation to the aforementioned legislative framework. Provide open/close services of Council property as directed. Comply with and promote equality, health, and safety in accordance with Council requirements and legal requirements. Undertake any other appropriate duties as may be allocated from time to time in accordance with the general nature of the post. Note: Post holders will be required to work early mornings, evenings, weekends, and Public/Bank holidays as required. PERSON SPECIFICATION: Qualifications (Essential): 5 GCSEs A-C (or equivalent) Qualifications (Desirable): Relevant formal training (e.g. enforcement, communication, de-escalation when dealing with the public in an enforcement role) Experience (Essential): Experience of dealing with animals, including dogs, in a professional capacity, enabling the safe impound, seizure, and transportation of stray and/or dangerous dogs. At least 6 months experience of enforcing relevant legislation, including detection and lawful disposal of offences. At least two years experience of effectively dealing with the public by phone and in person. Experience using MS Office, particularly Word. Key Skills and Abilities: Excellent communication and customer care skills. Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work as part of a team. Ability to organise and prioritise a demanding workload. Ability to use own initiative. Knowledge and understanding of current dog-related and other relevant legislation. Other Requirements: A valid Category B driving licence. Ability to work early mornings, evenings, weekends, and Public/Bank holidays as required. A driving assessment by Council will form part of the selection process. Consent to a basic Access NI check.